Brandon and Bennett sat quietly in the car, the low purr of the engine setting the backdrop for their intense conversation.
Bennett was on edge. "Boss, maybe it's best not to come around here again. Sydney's trouble, and if she decides to make a move on you, who knows what could happen?"
Brandon, however, was calm and collected, exuding confidence. "Bennett, aren't you always packing heat? With your sharpshooting skills, those two wouldn't stand a chance. Plus, Josie crafted this nifty cane for me. Once I pull it out, they'll know I'm not messing around!"
Bennett couldn't help but chuckle. "Boss, your trust in Ms. Josefina is something else."
"Josie showed me how to use it, and let me tell you, it's a stealthy little killer."
"Ms. Josefina's genius is off the charts. Building something like that is no small feat."
"Josie's a real gem; our Oliver really hit the jackpot with her. Bennett, let's get some gifts any girl would adore, and don't go cheap. Also, grab some health supplements, like cordyceps. Josie's been working tirelessly; she needs to stay sharp."
"Boss, I'll get someone on it right now, and we'll have it delivered to Ms. Josefina's place first thing tomorrow. No delays."
"Good man, Bennett. Make sure it’s the best."
"You got it, boss. Only the finest for Ms. Josefina."
With that, Brandon felt reassured.
...
Meanwhile, Sydney stormed back into her house, her mood as stormy as the skies outside.
Rowan was there, surrounded by empty bottles, the air heavy with the stench of alcohol.
Sydney tried to keep her cool, sitting next to Rowan with a forced smile. "Rowan, why are you drowning yourself in drink? It's not good for you."
Rowan glared at her, disdain in his eyes, and tossed a paper at her face.
Sydney was already a bundle of nerves, and this was the last thing she needed.
"Rowan."
She tried to reach for him again, but he deftly avoided her touch, maintaining his cold distance.
Watching Rowan leave, Sydney felt a despair she'd never experienced before.
She couldn't believe that Brandon's visit had seemingly given Rowan a clarity she'd never seen.
Pulling out her phone, Sydney called Dominic as she walked to the garden.
"Dominic, your dad's gone. He said he's going to investigate my intentions."
"What!" Dominic was in disbelief.
"You need to handle this. We can't let Rowan find out about us. I never thought he'd bounce back like this! Is he trying to ruin us?"

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